AIME 2024 showcases indigenous innovations in Australian tourism sector

Published on February 20, 2024

By: Tuhin Sarkar

The Asia Pacific Incentives Meetings Event (AIME) 2024 witnessed an engaging start with the “First Nations Cultures in Events” session.

Led by John Burgess and Emma Bamblett, this session focused on integrating Indigenous innovations into the Australian tourism sector, marking a significant effort to honor and showcase the world’s longest-living culture. Bamblett’s opening remarks underscored the importance of recognizing Indigenous contributions across various industries, particularly tourism, highlighting the rich cultural heritage present in Australia.

Networking and Knowledge Sharing

The bustling environment of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre showcased over 550 exhibitors, drawing visitors and buyers globally. The B2B travel trade show’s layout, especially with the new Ideas Academy space presented by Spice, facilitated a seamless interaction among attendees. This section, alongside the convention bureaus from Korea, Thailand, and Western Australia, and companies from Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong, created a vibrant networking hub. The Accor Buyer Lounge, positioned at the heart of the exhibition floor, served as a central meeting point for key stakeholders to exchange knowledge and foster connections.

The Ideas Academy Initiative

The Ideas Academy, a novel feature of this year’s AIME, aimed to inspire through a series of sessions on creativity, team building, diversity engagement, and event marketing. This initiative, presented by Spice, offered a platform for attendees to explore modern strategies and practices in the events industry. Through interactive sessions, the academy sought to empower event organizers, caterers, artists, and professionals by providing insights into accessing Indigenous talents and incorporating inclusive approaches in event planning.

AIME 2024 continues to set a precedent for the integration of culture, innovation, and community within the global events industry. Through initiatives like the First Nations Cultures session and the Ideas Academy, the event not only celebrates diversity but also encourages the exchange of ideas, fostering a more inclusive and connected industry landscape.